Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2019-2020 (archived)

Module MATH1607: Dynamics I

Department: Mathematical Sciences

MATH1607: Dynamics I

Type Open Level 1 Credits 10 Availability Available in 2019/20 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Normally grade A in A-Level Mathematics (or equivalent)

Corequisites

  • Calculus I (MATH 1061) and Linear Algebra I (MATH 1071)

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • Maths for Engineers and Scientists (MATH1551), Single Mathematics A (MATH1561), Single Mathematics B (MATH1571)

Aims

  • An understanding of elementary classical Newtonian dynamics.
  • Ability to formulate and solve basic problems in dynamics.

Content

  • Dynamics Newton's laws, frames of reference.
  • Mass, force, energy, momentum, angular momentum.
  • Sample motions: simple harmonic oscillator.
  • Projectiles.
  • Charged particle in constant electromagnetic field.
  • Orbits.
  • Waves on strings.
  • Wave equation for small amplitude oscillations, separation of variables.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Dynamics: Newtonian Mechanics, frames of reference, Newton's laws.
  • Sample motions.
  • Two body systems.
  • Waves on strings.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • students will have basic mathematical skills in the following areas: Modelling and spatial awareness.
Key Skills:
  • The ability to precisely formulate and solve dynamical problems.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lectures introduce the basic concepts.
  • Weekly homework problems provide formative assessment to guide students in the correct development of their knowledge and skills. They are also an aid in developing students' awareness of standards required.
  • The examination provides a final assessment of the achievement of the student.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours Attendance Monitored
Lectures 28 2 in weeks 14,16,18,20, and 3 in weeks 11,12,13,15,17,19 (alternating with Problems Classes) and 2 revision lectures in term 3 1 Hour 28
Tutorials 6 Fortnightly in weeks 12,14,16,18,20 and one in week 21 1 Hour 6 Yes
Problems Classes 4 Fortnightly in weeks 14,16,18,20 1 Hour 4
Preparation and Reading 62
Total 100

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written examination for dynamics 2 hours 100% Yes

Formative Assessment:

Weekly written assignments, normally consisting of solving problems from a problem sheet and typically about 2 pages long. Students will have about one week to complete each assignment.


Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.